Imperialism is the political, economic, or cultural control of one country by another.
Causes:
EconomicMotives-
The Industrial Revolution created a large demand for raw materials and new markets.
Nationalism-
Nationalism is pride in one's country and European nations wanted to demonstrate their power to the world.
Balance of Power-
European nations were forced to acquire new colonies to achieve balance.
White Man's Burden-
The Europeans’ sense of superiority made them feel obligated to “civilize the heathen savages” they encountered.
Reasons for European Justification:
The economy and government of their country would improve.
"I contend that we are the first race in the world and that the more of the world we inhabit the better it is for the human race. I contend that every acre added to our territory provides for the birth of more of the English race, who otherwise would not be brought into existence....I believe it to be my duty to God, my Queen and my country to paint the whole map of Africa red, red from the Cape to Cairo. That is my creed, my dream and my mission." -Cecil Rhodes
How the subjugated felt:
Africans were treated as inferior to Europeans.
Europeans divided Africa & ignored the tribal, ethnic, and cultural boundaries of the Africans. This later led to tribal conflicts in many African nations that still continue today.
Ways Europeans easily forced their control on other countries:
Europeans had powerful armies & had the ability to control any country.
Consequences & Effects of Imperialism:
Europeans took raw materials, labor, and taxes from their colonies.
A positive effect on Africa was the introduction of modern transportation and communication systems. This included the railroads and telephones.
The introduction of Europeans medicine & improved nutrition led to an increase in population.
Terrorism and racism are lasting effects that we still see today.
Works Cited
Ellis, Elisabeth G. "The New Imperialism." World History: The Modern Era. Boston: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2007.
http://regentsprep.org/Regents/global/themes/imperialism/index.cfm
Picture: http://users.erols.com/mwhite28/1907powr.htm
http://www.whiteplainspublicschools.org/411212512167531/lib/411212512167531/European_Imperialism_in_Africa,_1870-1898_(12).ppt.